U.S. Virgin Islands – The Virgin Islands Police Department/Office of Highway Safety (VIPD/OHS) is urging residents and visitors to make responsible decisions behind the wheel as the Territory celebrates Emancipation and Independence Day. These holidays honor our history, resilience, and the freedoms we cherish. But in a single moment, one poor decision behind the wheel can change a family’s future forever.
These holiday, don’t let impaired, distracted, or drowsy driving become part of your story. If your plans include alcohol, arrange for a sober driver. If you’re tired, don’t push through the drive. If your phone rings or a message comes in, it can wait. No text, call, or social media post is worth a life.
“Freedom comes with responsibility. The greatest gift we can give our families during Emancipation and Independence Day is making sure everyone gets home safely. One safe choice behind the wheel can save a life.”
VIPD/OHS also encourages motorists to buckle up, obey posted speed limits, and remain alert for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists during the holiday festivities.
Celebrate the freedom we’ve earned. Protect the lives we love.
No celebration is worth a lifetime of regret.
Drive Responsibly. Get Home Safely.
For more information about drug-impaired driving, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drug-impaired-driving. To request a traffic safety presentation or learn more about impaired driving prevention, contact the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety through Director Daphne O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov, or the Impaired Driving Program Manager, K’ Tonya Petrus at k’tonya.petrus@vi.gov. You may also contact the office via telephone at (340) 772-3025.
